Babel missed eight of the next 12 international games- two absences were due to commitments with the Under-20 and Under-21 squads- but was still included in Van Basten’s 2006 World Cup squad.

The 19-year-old was the youngest member of the squad, while only Kew Jaliens and Tim de Cler had fewer outfield caps.

Nevertheless, Babel made his World Cup debut against Argentina in the final group game. It would prove to be his only appearance as the Netherlands were knocked out in the round of 16 war against Portugal.

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